Where are the sql files installed?

[JRedman]

I'm using v1.3.9f on a linux server and I need to overwrite the db files (.sql?) but I can't find the db files or the zc_install directory.

This is my first post. I have searched the FAQs and the database and have not found a direct reference as to where to look for the files or the zc_install directory.

I have searched many directories on my site but to no avail.

Thanks!

[richphitzwell]

sql is db. but for the purpose of zencart admin>tools>install sql patch.

there may be times when you need to modify the db outside of using sql (mainly for ease) and you would access it via your host settings, for instance all you want to do is expand maximum product title length its easier than writing sql.

[Ryk]

Not quite sure exactly what you are really asking, but the zc_install directory (which incorporates the necessary files to create the database tables) is contained within the zip file you would have downloaded.

[kuroi]

Your site consists of a database and a file system. After Zen Cart has been installed, the zc_install folder which contains the sql used to load the database should have been deleted (to prevent anybody coming along later and reinstalling over the top of your site) - so it may not be there to be found.

Your database will live somewhere away from your site as part of your mysql installation. Your site then "connects" to it. You wouldn't normally try to touch those files directly, as you would risk corrupting your mysql installation. If your site is hosted by somebody else, they will probably have those files wrapped up in lots of protection.

Instead "direct" access to your database would normally be through phpMyAdmin (usually in your hosting company's control panel) or dedicated database management tools such as sqlYog or NaviCat.

You can also normally create and delete databases through tools provided through a hosting control panel.

[JRedman]

Thanks for the good information. It's helping me become better educated.

I have several sites where Zen-Cart is installed. I want to take the database from one and populate another. I was hoping that I could simply take the db file and copy it to one of the other installations.

I have the file, a backup, that I downloaded from my provider.

It seems that your are saying that the directory where the db is located is not available to me via ftp. Is that correct?

[kuroi]

Only if you have FTP access to your server's mysql installation and even then if wouldn't be a good way to copy a database.

Much better is to "export" from one database and "import" that to the new database. phpMyAdmin is a good tool for doing this and available on most servers that have php.

[JRedman]

OK, I think I've got it!

Thanks for the information. This will help tremendously!